North Hampton Public Library Full Calendar of Events
Looking for details on Youth Programs? Visit our youth pages, organized by age group!
Upcoming New and Exclusive Programs!
January 2025
Chair Yoga with Kim Rivest
Every Monday, January 6 – February 17, 1:00 PM
Dive into a serene journey encompassing pranayama techniques, yoga philosophy, and mindfulness meditation, all designed to enrich your well-being.
Under Kim Rivest’s expert guidance, discover the art of utilizing yoga blocks and straps for enhanced comfort and alignment.
This exclusive program is free of charge, but registration is required for all participants. Secure your spot today and embark on a journey of rejuvenation and self-discovery with Chair Yoga
Registration is required. Space is limited.
This program is generously sponsored in part by the Friends of the Library.
This program is intended for adults only.
**Our instructor has kindly offered to extend this program by a week due to low turn out January 20.**
If you would like to attend Chair Yoga on February 17 you may now register for that session on the sign-up form.
Meteorites & Meteor Astronomy
Tuesday, January 21, 4:00 PM
(SNOW DATE Tuesday, January 28)
An enlightening and hands-on exploration of the cosmos!
Join us for an immersive experience that promises to unravel the wonders of meteorites and celestial bodies under the expert guidance of a seasoned astronomer. Patrick Leverone, the Meteorite Project Director at the renowned Maine Mineral & Gem Museum will unravel the enigmatic world of meteorites and celestial phenomena with unparalleled expertise.
Get a chance to hold a real meteorite in your hand while you learn about its journey to earth from space. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or a seeker of cosmic truths, join us for an evening of celestial enlightenment that promises to ignite wonder and curiosity.
PLEASE NOTE that if we experience severe weather conditions on both the original date and the snow date, the program will be moved online to Zoom on January 28. (We will email the code to all registered participants.)
Open to all ages!
This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Registration is required for this program.
Artistry of the Isles of Shoals – Celia Thaxter’s Salon
Wednesday, January 22, 7:00 PM
Join us in the historic North Hampton Town Hall building to hear local historian Ann Beattie discuss Artistry of the Isles of Shoals – Celia Thaxter’s Salon: Something about the mystery of islands and the endless sea vista seems to ignite creativity, and the Shoals have inspired writers, musicians and artists for centuries. Explore the lives and work of the famous visitors to poet Celia Thaxter’s salon and discover how they collaborated to produce some of their finest pieces.
Ann Beattie is an educator with a fascination for the Isles of Shoals and its rich history. She combs through historical records, salt cod recipes, and journals of Shoalers in an effort to capture and revive the unique stories that bring Shoals history to life. Ann is a former president of the Isles of Shoals Historical and Research Association and serves as a Board member of the Portsmouth Athenaeum. She leads tours of the Shoals and hosts history programs on Star Island. Ann always has an intriguing tale to tell about a place so magical it will steal your heart.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults
The library is co-sponsoring the North Hampton Historical Society with this event.
Wednesday Crafternoon: Chinese New Year Needle Felting
Wednesday, January 29, 4:30 – 6:30 PM (Drop-in!)
Join Programming librarian, Tori for this special edition of Wednesday Crafternoon where they’ll teach you how to needlefelt decorative Lunar New Year lanterns. Add a snake design to your lantern to signify the 2025 Year of the Snake, or get creative and put your own spin on it!
Wednesday Crafternoon:
Join us every last Wednesday of the month for Wednesday Crafternoon! Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, this program is open to all ages and craft enthusiasts.
-Connect with fellow crafters in a relaxed and friendly environment.
-Bring your ongoing craft projects, share your skills, or learn something new from others.
-One of the highlights of Wednesday Crafternoon is the ongoing craft item swap.
Have some unused craft supplies lying around at home? Bring them along and trade them with fellow participants. in our ongoing craft supply swap!
Whether you’re looking to socialize, gain inspiration, or simply spend a delightful afternoon immersed in crafty pursuits, Wednesday Crafternoon is the perfect place to be. There’s no need to register in advance; just drop in at your convenience any time between 4:30 and 6:30 PM.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults and older teens
Free and open to the general public.
This program is first-come-first-serve while supplies last. Supplies generously sponsored by the Friends of NHPL.
War & Peace: An Honest Conversation about Israel/Palestine
Thursday, January 30, 6:00 PM
Navigating nuance and narrative to understand the current conflict, and find hope within the darkness…
Scholar Jared Goldfarb will navigate nuance and narrative to help participants understand the current conflict and find hope within the darkness. Goldfarb is an independent educator and licensed tour guide based in Jerusalem with more than 25 years of experience in the field. Born and raised in New Hampshire, he lived in 6 different countries before making his home in Israel nearly 30 years ago. Thanks to the vibrant learning community in Jerusalem, Jared fell in love with the Jewish textual tradition, spent 5 years studying in various yeshivas, and served for 8 years as the Program Director of Ta Shma: Pluralistic Jewish Learning. Simultaneously, he graduated from the National Tour guide Course, and since 1999 has worked as a licensed guide for families, faith communities, and multi-narrative student encounters with Israel/Palestine.
Jared currently serves as a faculty member at many Jerusalem institutions that welcome Christian clergy, educators, seminarians and laypeople from around the world to study the Holy Land from an academic perspective, such as the Tantur Ecumenical Institute, Ecce Homo Centre for Biblical Formation, and Bat Kol. He also teaches biblical geography, the textual and contextual history of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, and Israeli/Palestinian geopolitics for various seminaries, universities and multi-faith groups.
This program is free and open to the general public.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults
Generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
February 2025
Make Your Own Victorian Puzzle Purse Valentine
Wednesday, February 12, 4:00 PM
Join us for a Creation Station Takeover with this special Valentine’s Day craft! Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Victorian puzzle purses this season
A puzzle purse is a type of intricate folded paper craft that originated during the Victorian era. These unique creations are essentially folded paper envelopes that contain hidden messages or compartments, requiring a series of folds and unfolding to reveal the inner contents. They often feature decorative elements, intricate patterns, and sometimes even puzzles or riddles for the recipient to solve in order to unveil the hidden message or gift inside. Victorian puzzle purses were popular as a form of sentimental gift-giving during the 19th century, showcasing both creativity and thoughtfulness in their design and presentation.
Under the guidance of our Program Librarian, Tori, participants will embark on a hands-on experience to craft their very own Victorian puzzle purse Valentine. Unravel the secrets of this timeless art form and create a unique keepsake to cherish or gift.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults and older teens
Registration is not required.
Emotional Freedom Techniques
Saturday, February 15, 11:00 AM
Learn the science, education, and application of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)
“Tapping”; a non-invasive self-help tool for stress relief and MORE! This workshop is perfect for people who are new to “tapping” OR who are familiar with the concept and would enjoy some guided simple processes with a teacher.
This offering is taught by Kerri M. Vercellini; a Holistic Licensed Mental Health Counselor who serves clients in-person in the Seacoast NH area and Essex County, MA. We hope you join us to empower yourself and grow your knowledge of helpful tools for stress relief, which do not involve the use of medication.
Learn more about EFT on Awaken Holistic Counseling Services’ website: www.awakenhcs.com
Open to all ages; geared towards adults and older teens
Registration is not required.
Visiting Author Series: Go Home by Terry Farish (and Lochan Sharma)
Tuesday, February 18, 6:00 PM
Terry Farish writes books for young adults and children. Her latest YA novel, Go Home, is written with Lochan Sharma whose family are Nepali-speaking refugees from Bhutan.
📚 Join us for our Visiting Authors Series at the North Hampton Public Library! 📚
Come join us every month as we welcome local authors to the library to share their stories with our community!
🖋️ Meet Local Talent: Join our guest authors as they discuss their latest publications and share their creative journey with you.
📖 Dive into Great Stories: Whether you’re into heartfelt memoirs or thrilling mysteries, these authors have got stories that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
🛍️ Snag Your Next Page-Turner: Want to take a piece of the magic home? Grab a copy of the featured author’s book at the event, maybe even get it signed! Support local writers and score some awesome reads.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults and teens
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.
March 2025
What’s Messing with our Brains?: A Natural Approach to Brain Health
Thursday, March 6, 4:00 PM
A natural health talk presented by Derek Reilly, ND
Join local ND, Derek Reilly for a discussion on holistic approaches to improving brain health!
- Discover new and simple solutions for maximizing your brain function and preventing common neurological conditions
- Find support for common ailments related to brain function, including brain fog and memory issues
- Learn about the history of neurological conditions and why they are so prevalent in our modern society
Naturopathic Doctor , Derek Reilly works with Embrace Integrative Health in Newington, NH. To learn more visit EmbraceIntegrativeHealth.com.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults
This program is free and open to the general public.
Songs & Stories of World War II – Popular Wartime Songs and their Stories you didn’t Know
Tuesday, March 11, 2:00 PM
Join us in partnership with the North Hampton Historical Society as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a special program presented by Ramblin’ Richard.
Delve into the nostalgia of the era with beloved American songs such as “Bluebirds over the White Cliffs of Dover,” “Sentimental Journey,” “Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition,” and “Chattanooga Choo Choo.” Not only will you be treated to live performances of these wartime tunes, but you will also learn about the intriguing and lesser-known stories behind them, shedding light on their connection to the war years.
Led by a member of the New England Foundation for the Arts and a retired professor with expertise in Gospel and American folk music, this event promises to be both educational and entertaining. With over 200 performances annually, our host, Ramblin’ Richard, combines musical prowess with historical insight, posing captivating questions such as “What popular song was written in response to the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor?” and “Why was this song banned from radio broadcasts during wartime working hours?” Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the sounds and stories of World War II.
This program is presented in partnership with the North Hampton Historical Society.
Open to all ages!
Generously co-sponsored by the Friends of NHPL.
Visiting Author Series: Trailblazing Women Printmakers: Virginia Lee Burton Demetrios and the Folly Cove Designers by Elena M. Sarni
Thursday, March 20, 6:00 PM
Elena M. Sarni is a humanities-based scholar, writer, and curator. Her book features more than 250 black-and-white and color photographs of the famed Folly Cove designers.
📚 Join us for our Visiting Authors Series at the North Hampton Public Library! 📚
Come join us every month as we welcome local authors to the library to share their stories with our community!
🖋️ Meet Local Talent: Join our guest authors as they discuss their latest publications and share their creative journey with you.
📖 Dive into Great Stories: Whether you’re into heartfelt memoirs or thrilling mysteries, these authors have got stories that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
🛍️ Snag Your Next Page-Turner: Want to take a piece of the magic home? Grab a copy of the featured author’s book at the event, maybe even get it signed! Support local writers and score some awesome reads.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults and older teens
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.
Generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library
April 2025
Eternal Reflections: Going Out Green presented by Lee Webster
Wednesday, April 16 at 4:00 PM
Learn about green burial and other natural end of life options
Join us for a transformative series of free library programs designed to explore the complex topic of death in a factual and compassionate environment. Led by industry professionals, these sessions aim to foster open discussions about end-of-life issues, grief, and the value of pre-planning, encouraging participants to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs and to learn about death care options.
Join us to learn more about the principles of sustainable funeral options and what we can each do to plan for a more affordable, meaningful, and planet-friendly exit.
Lee Webster is a nationally recognized public speaker and author of several books and articles on funeral reform, including home funerals and green burial.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.
Visiting Author Series: Thomas North: The Original Author of Shakespeare’s Plays by Dennis McCarthy
Thursday, April 24, 6:00 PM
Acclaimed researcher Dennis McCarthy presents the true story of Sir Thomas North, the scholarly knight whose thrilling and shocking life was later adapted into plays by Shakespeare.
📚 Join us for our Visiting Authors Series at the North Hampton Public Library! 📚
Come join us every month as we welcome local authors to the library to share their stories with our community!
🖋️ Meet Local Talent: Join our guest authors as they discuss their latest publications and share their creative journey with you.
📖 Dive into Great Stories: Whether you’re into heartfelt memoirs or thrilling mysteries, these authors have got stories that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
🛍️ Snag Your Next Page-Turner: Want to take a piece of the magic home? Grab a copy of the featured author’s book at the event, maybe even get it signed! Support local writers and score some awesome reads.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults and older teens
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.
May 2025
Eternal Reflections: Green Burial in the Seacoast presented by Sarah Clark
Thursday, May 15 at 6:00 PM
Join us for a transformative series of free library programs designed to explore the complex topic of death in a factual and compassionate environment. Led by industry professionals, these sessions aim to foster open discussions about end-of-life issues, grief, and the value of pre-planning, encouraging participants to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs and to learn about death care options.
Come learn about natural (or green) burial, ask all your questions and hear about our efforts to start a natural burial cemetery in the Seacoast! Learn more and Lotus and Lavender Burial’s newsletter: www.lotusandlavenderburial.org.
Presented by Sarah Clark, Founder and Executive Director of Lotus and Lavender Burial, a nonprofit working to promote natural burial in the New Hampshire Seacoast.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.
Mighty Monarch Butterflies presented by Emily Wrubel & Judy Fink
Thursday, May 17 at 1:00 PM
Inspiring Conservation, One Flutter at a Time…
Join us at the North Hampton Public Library for an exclusive event, “Mighty Monarch Butterflies.” Delve into the captivating journey of Hillsborough, NH resident, Emily Wrubel, and her companion, Judy Fink, as they share their experience from their remarkable expedition to Mexico where they were able to witness firsthand the majestic monarch butterflies in their serene wintering grounds nestled high in the Transvolcanic Mountain Range.
Uncover the compelling motivations behind their expedition, gain profound insights into the remarkable long-distance voyages of these fascinating creatures, and explore actionable ways to contribute to the conservation of this delicate and endangered species. Immerse yourself in a tale of wonder, discovery, and conservation, as we unravel the mysteries of the monarch butterflies together.
This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Open to all ages!
Registration is required for this program.
Visiting Author Series: Endangered Species: Chronicles of the Life of a New England Fisherman and the F/V Ellen Diane by David Goethel
Thursday, May 29, 6:00 PM
If David Goethel was a cat, he would be in the market for more lives. But David is a small boat fisherman, an endangered species, who works tirelessly for himself and others like him to survive.
📚 Join us for our Visiting Authors Series at the North Hampton Public Library! 📚
Come join us every month as we welcome local authors to the library to share their stories with our community!
🖋️ Meet Local Talent: Join our guest authors as they discuss their latest publications and share their creative journey with you.
📖 Dive into Great Stories: Whether you’re into heartfelt memoirs or thrilling mysteries, these authors have got stories that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
🛍️ Snag Your Next Page-Turner: Want to take a piece of the magic home? Grab a copy of the featured author’s book at the event, maybe even get it signed! Support local writers and score some awesome reads.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.
Summer Clothing Swap
Saturday, May 31, 10:30 – 1:00 PM
Get ready to refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime. It’s the perfect opportunity to declutter and exchange your gently used summer clothes for something new-to-you!
Bring your unwanted but still wearable summer clothing items, including t-shirts, shorts, dresses, swimwear, and accessories, to the library. Browse through the wide selection of donated items and find trendy outfits and stylish accessories to enhance your summer fashion.
Not only will you be able to revamp your closet, but you’ll also contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly community by promoting clothing reuse and reducing waste.
Please ensure that all items you bring are clean, in good condition, and suitable for summer wear. Any leftover items will be donated to NH Mutual Aid Relief Fund.
This is an all-inclusive swap: all ages, genders and sizes are welcome!
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.
June 2025
Eternal Reflections: Writing a Legacy Letter presented by Jay Sherwin
Saturday, June 14, 12:00 PM
Join us for a transformative series of free library programs designed to explore the complex topic of death in a factual and compassionate environment. Led by industry professionals, these sessions aim to foster open discussions about end-of-life issues, grief, and the value of pre-planning, encouraging participants to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs and to learn about death care options.
A legacy letter is a written document that allows people to share their life lessons, express their values and transmit their blessings to future generations. Writing a legacy letter is a rewarding experience that creates an enduring gift for family, friends and other loved ones.
Jay Sherwin created the “Life Reflections Project” to educate people about legacy letters and ethical wills; he now teaches legacy writing and works with clients to help them draft or edit their own legacy documents.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.
The History of Emancipation & Juneteenth presented by historian & public speaker Christopher Daley
Thursday, June 19, 6:00 PM
Join returning presenter Christopher Daley for his program: The History of Emancipation & Juneteenth. This 90-minute presentation which begins with a short history of the Abolitionist movement from the 1830s through the Civil War. Then the discussion will turn to all the slavery connected causes of the Civil War and the growing hue and cry for the end of slavery. Additionally, the election of Abaraham Lincoln will be examined spotlighting his views on slavery and African Americans. Through the course of the talk, we will also see a revealing view on how his ideas and opinions evolved over time.
The second part of the presentation will look at some of the events that led up to The Emancipation Proclamation such as Freemont’s Emancipation, Hunter’s Emancipation, and the General Benjamin Butler’s orders on “Contraband of War.” Then, it will turn to the Emancipation Proclamation itself; the timing of it, the politics of it and who was actually freed by it.
Next we will talk about the gradual emancipation of slaves by Federal Troops as they conquered the different Confederate states, the end of the war and the movement of troops into Texas and the famous issuing of General Order No. 3 on June 19th, 1865 at Galveston Texas and how the news spread through Texas and the reaction of the slaves to tidings of freedom!
Finally, we’ll conclude with a discussion to showcase how Juneteenth went from a local Galveston celebration to a national holiday.
This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Open to all ages; geared towards adults and older teens
This program is free and open to the general public. Registration is not required.